In the Classroom   

This class is for the beginning painter. We will learn and practice color mixing, composition, using basic painting projects to master blending, and control of the acrylic medium. We will follow step-by-step instructions. All materials are provided.

If you have painted before and would like to take your painting to a deeper level, this class is for you. We will continue to work on brush use, palette knives with the addition of mixed media, and furthering our understanding of building a painting. Paintings will be step-by-step with room for individual exploration. The focus will be on understanding the what and the why and developing an informed, intuitive painting practice.

California is facing continuing growth in the number of seniors residing in the state with 8.6 million adults aged 65 and older expected by 2030. The overall goal of the Age Well, Drive Smart program is to ensure older adults have access to continued driver's education and training to help keep roads safe for everyone. Upon completion of this course you will be issued an Age Well, Drive Well certificate that can be presented to your insurance company for a possible discount.

This class will provide an overview of the history and methods used to search for extraterrestrial intelligence in the Milky Way galaxy. We will explore how and where we are searching, and what we have found. The Drake equation, the Rare Earth hypothesis, and the Fermi Paradox are among the topics discussed.

We'll visit museums, art galleries, and studios in the area and talk with curators and artists to learn more about the places and the work. Afterwards, we'll go to coffee houses or restaurants for no-host treats and conversation with group members.

This class will explore the varied styles of beer, from lager to bitter, gruit to porter. We will cover the style criteria, history, and brewing techniques of various styles. No background is necessary, just an inquiring and inquisitive mindset – and a love of beer, of course.

This class will explore the varied styles of beer, from lager to bitter, gruit to porter. We will cover the style criteria, history, and brewing techniques of various styles. No background is necessary, just an inquiring and inquisitive mindset – and a love of beer, of course.

This class uses a group study of the book Complete Spanish Step by Step, Premium 2nd Edition, by Barbara Bregstein, beginning with chapter 10.

This class uses a group study of the book Complete Spanish Step by Step, Premium 2nd Edition, by Barbara Bregstein, beginning with chapter 12.

This class uses a group study of the book Complete Spanish Step by Step, Premium 2nd Edition, by Barbara Bregstein, beginning with chapter 5.

We will discuss the fifth agreement and the importance of core values in guiding our lives, as well as inspirational words to help move us more intentionally and peacefully through the chaos and uncertainty of this life. This class is only for those who are familiar with the four agreements or have taken the "Living the Four Agreements" class.

Experience an engaging two-hour aviation field trip that brings local air history and aircraft operations to life. Begin with a warm welcome and overview of aviation basics before heading outdoors for a guided walk along the flight line to explore Cal Fire's aircraft, a vintage 1929 biplane, and Aero-Flite's air tanker operations. Conclude with an in-depth hangar tour.

Chico State's tradition of academic excellence goes back more than 130 years. With over 800 faculty members and 14,000 students, the University's teaching and learning community is thriving. Discover the imagination, cutting-edge research, and expertise that flourishes in our own backyard!

Does your life spark joy? If not, decluttering with feng shui can help. Clutter is not bad, but it is a great teacher. Feng shui teaches that where you have clutter in your spaces reflects where you're stuck in your life. Without this level of understanding, you can declutter but it may return. This will be a fun and interactive class, and you will learn a bit about yourself in the process.

This class includes short presentations (talks, slides, videos) followed by discussions on all sorts of current US and world topics involving history, government, policy, science, technology, literature, education, culture, and many more. Participants are welcome to make presentations, suggest topics, discuss, or just listen. Special guests are also welcome to present.

Do you draw, write novels, knit, paint, collage, hook rugs, embroider, or make any other art or craft? Do you need an impulse to get you going? Instead of doing it alone, come to the OLLI Creation Zone. We will have tables (with plastic sheets covering them to allow for messiness) and chairs set up. You bring yourself, your ideas, and your materials. No instruction, no demands, just a group of people creating in comradery.

Friends and family love getting handmade cards. Come join us and discover basic techniques and tips for making beautiful cards. And the best part is that it's fun!

We will examine current controversies about federal government initiatives reported in popular media. In general, these issues relate to provisions in the US Constitution called the separation of powers. Why did the founders design this? How is it supposed to work? Our sources will be news articles, opinion columns, and letters to the editor. We will use the learning through conversation method to understand these public policy issues. We will not attempt to propose solutions.

We will examine current controversies about federal government initiatives reported in popular media. In general, these issues relate to provisions in the US Constitution called the separation of powers. Why did the founders design this? How is it supposed to work? Our sources will be news articles, opinion columns, and letters to the editor. We will use the learning through conversation method to understand these public policy issues. We will not attempt to propose solutions.

In this class intended as a primer for estate administrators Dana and Tara Campbell from OLLI sponsor Dana L. Campbell, Attorney At Law will explore the intricacies of probate and of trust administration. We will discuss strategy, requirements, and dangers lurking in the administration of estates. If you are currently administering an estate or may be responsible for an administration in the future, please join us for discourse and fellowship. You are not alone! We will also briefly touch upon why administering a trust is so much easier than having to complete a probate.

Want to watch some great and interesting movies? In this class we'll watch and discuss some of our favorites. Each meeting will feature a representative movie from a different genre.

Physical well-being allows us to live our longest, most capable, and fulfilling lives. Come ensure your well-being through mobility exercises. We'll practice balance, strength, agility, and flexibility movements that improve your mobility. Each class follows a similar routine that can be done at home, allowing you to look after the health of your body for many years to come. All ability levels are welcome. Your body will thank you!

Physical well-being allows us to live our longest, most capable, and fulfilling lives. Come ensure your well-being through mobility exercises. We'll practice balance, strength, agility, and flexibility movements that improve your mobility. Each class follows a similar routine that can be done at home, allowing you to look after the health of your body for many years to come. All ability levels are welcome. Your body will thank you!

"Folkloric" means "for everyone" – all ages, all abilities. If you can walk, you can dance; if you can talk, you can sing. This interactive class weaves together lecture, movement, live percussion, and discussion to explore embodied practices that preserve culture and build community. Participants learn through doing, engaging mind, body, and spirit in traditions that entertain, educate, and strengthen. As a bonus, when you're done, you won't need a trip to the gym.

In For the Time Being, naturalist Annie Dillard explores how the sacred reveals itself in our modern, scientifically-oriented world. Her protagonists are the Baal Shem Tov, an eighteenth-century Hasidic rabbi, and Teilhard de Chardin, a twentieth-century Jesuit paleontologist. She brings the mystery of birth, the Chinese Emperor Qin's ten thousand terra-cotta soldiers, and an extended visit to modern Israel into her quest. Dillard asks, "Given things as they are, how shall one individual live?" Join this learning through conversation seminar to explore with her.

Stretch your body and relax your mind with one hour of gentle yoga. The instructor specializes in making yoga accessible to everyone at any age or physical condition. There is always a way to practice yoga. This class will include some discussion and lecture on the philosophy of yoga.

Join Enloe Community Health for a three-part lecture series. Each class will cover a unique topic led by a local medical expert from Enloe Health with time for questions. The series is designed to support a healthier you.

Explore the basics of beading in this introductory class. Learn what types of materials to use depending on the project and various techniques to create bracelets, necklaces, or earrings. All materials are provided.

Explore the basics of beading in this introductory class. Learn what types of materials to use depending on the project and various techniques to create bracelets, necklaces, or earrings. All materials are provided.

Join us to play games, socialize, and have fun. We have Rummikub, Qwirkle, Sequence, Mexican Train, card games, and more, from the well-known to the obscure. Bring a game to share or just show up and have fun.

Join us to play games, socialize, and have fun. We have Rummikub, Qwirkle, Sequence, Mexican Train, card games, and more, from the well-known to the obscure. Bring a game to share or just show up and have fun.

California Master Gardeners provide educational outreach from University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE) offices throughout the state. The mission of the Butte County Master Gardeners is to extend research-based education and technical assistance throughout the non-commercial gardening community and to foster successful gardening practices by helping individuals make informed decisions about plants, pests, and the environment, with an emphasis on sustainability. Join us as we address a wide range of fascinating subjects.

This class offers a calm and welcoming space to connect more deeply within yourself and gain clarity around life. Each session focuses on a specific theme and begins with a 10-minute meditation that combines guided and silent practice. Following meditation, you will have time for personal journaling. A themed writing prompt will be provided to spark reflection, though you are welcome to explore any topic that feels meaningful. All journal entries are private.

This experiential workshop teaches practical mindfulness skills to reduce stress, increase emotional well-being, and support a more grounded daily life. Each session includes guided meditation, gentle awareness practices, and group reflection. You will learn mindful breathing, body awareness, emotional regulation, and compassion practices, along with strategies for applying mindfulness during challenging moments. No prior experience is needed. By the end of the class, you will have tools for greater calm, clarity, and resilience.

Join us for dinner and a show! We will enjoy a pre-show dinner followed by a play at a local theatre. Dinners are optional and will be scheduled closer to the dates of each performance. Come enjoy local talent and socialize with fellow show lovers.

Play pickleball with other members. In this class, you will receive paddles and balls, enjoy light instruction for beginners, and have plenty of time to practice skills and play games with fellow OLLI members. Whether you're brand new to pickleball or looking to sharpen your game, this fun, social class is a great way to get active and learn one of the fastest-growing sports in the country.

This class is for people who already know how to play the A-G chords. We play and sing 3-, 4-, and 5-chord songs by Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, Johnny Cash, the Everly Brothers, and other musicians from the '50s, '60s, and '70s. The class is mostly to practice feeling comfortable with playing guitar while singing. There is some instruction on more advanced guitar playing. Bring a guitar, ukulele, or other stringed instrument, or you're welcome to come just to sing along with the class.

Reading poetry helps you to know things more fully; it commands your attention; and it can sustain good conversation. In this class, participants select poetry from favorite sources to read aloud with fellow enthusiasts.

Step inside one of California's most iconic breweries to get the full behind-the-scenes experience at Sierra Nevada Brewery. Learn about the company's history, its brewing process, and its innovative and industry-leading sustainability efforts. See the copper kettles where each batch begins, learn how the hops shape the flavor of each beer, learn about the magic of fermentation, and watch the packaging line in action. You don't have to be a beer lover to make this brewery worth a visit.

Sing and/or play popular gospel songs. Bring your voice, guitar, violin, cello, harmonica, squeeze box, or other instrument and join a group of people singing and playing for fun. This is not meant to be religious. It's just a place to enjoy great music. Join us!

Join us for this beginner's guide to navigating the heavens. We will consider an eclectic mix of mythology, historic viewpoints, and current events in meteorology, astronomy, and cosmology. Eyes to the sky!

In this class you will learn the nature and characteristics of a moral or ethical dilemma, along with a technique for identifying, addressing, and solving the dilemma. New dilemmas will be provided for each class period. You will be encouraged, but not required, to bring your own suitably anonymized dilemmas to class for discussion and analysis.

This class covers writing and conversation in Spanish. The class will be conducted mostly in Spanish; English may be used for support. Participants will have the opportunity to speak and to write short compositions for review and discussion. The class may have native speakers and professional Spanish educators as guest speakers. There is nothing like having a professional Spanish educator to help learn Spanish conversation.

Located at the corner of Fifth and Salem Streets, the Stansbury Home was built by Dr. Oscar Stansbury, a local physician, in 1883. Owned by the City of Chico since 1976, it is operated by the Stansbury Home Preservation Association as a historic house museum. This tour will include Dr. Stansbury's office, with its display of the tools used in his practice, as well as rooms used by the Stansbury family with original interiors and furnishings intact.

Located at the corner of Fifth and Salem Streets, the Stansbury Home was built by Dr. Oscar Stansbury, a local physician, in 1883. Owned by the City of Chico since 1976, it is operated by the Stansbury Home Preservation Association as a historic house museum. This tour will include Dr. Stansbury's office, with its display of the tools used in his practice, as well as rooms used by the Stansbury family with original interiors and furnishings intact.

Join us for an empowering self-defense class designed exclusively for OLLI members. In this fun, dynamic, safe, and practical session, Senior Grandmaster Azad, renowned for training tens of thousands of people in personal safety, will teach you real-world strategies to protect yourself at home, in public, and beyond. Learn simple but powerful techniques to stay safe, enhance awareness, and defend yourself effectively. This class is for people of all abilities.

Join us for an empowering self-defense class designed exclusively for OLLI members. In this fun, dynamic, safe, and practical session, Senior Grandmaster Azad, renowned for training tens of thousands of people in personal safety, will teach you real-world strategies to protect yourself at home, in public, and beyond. Learn simple but powerful techniques to stay safe, enhance awareness, and defend yourself effectively. This class is for people of all abilities.

Play table tennis with other members. You will receive paddles and balls, get basic instruction on strokes and footwork, and enjoy friendly games with fellow OLLI members. Whether you're completely new to table tennis or returning to a favorite pastime, this fast, fun, low-impact activity is a great way to sharpen your reflexes, stay active, and enjoy time with friends.

Tai Chi for Arthritis was developed in 1997 and is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Arthritis often gets worse without proper exercise. Tai Chi for Arthritis helps to improve muscular strength, flexibility, balance, cardiorespiratory fitness, and clarity of mind. The gentle and slow movements help to improve the flow of energy and healing, and it is enjoyable and calming.

Tap dance involves rhythmic, percussive, and precise movement of the feet while promoting the flow and individual style of the entire body. Classes will include warm-up, structured movement phrases that will build in complexity, and creative explorations. All levels are welcome. Good standing balance is recommended.

Tap dance involves rhythmic, percussive, and precise movement of the feet while promoting the flow and individual style of the entire body. Classes will include warm-up, structured movement phrases that will build in complexity, and creative explorations. All levels are welcome. Good standing balance is recommended.

How many times have you heard, "Dance like nobody's watching"? This class is the antidote to movement inhibition. Your cells are itching to move to the beat, perfection not required. We'll play, connect, and converse through music and movement in a fun, safe, inclusive setting. If you just love to move, show up and share it!

Our eyes exhibit age-related changes in performance as we get older, particularly as we reach our 60s. Some of these changes are perfectly normal and don't signify any sort of disease process. And though cataracts can be considered an age-related disease, they are common in older adults and can be readily corrected with surgery. Benjamin Gilbert and other doctors from OLLI sponsor Chico Eye Center explore these common changes, as well as more serious age-related eye diseases. Understanding more about our aging eyes and what we can do as we notice changes can help improve our eye health and overall quality of life.

Vercors, an alpine fortress in the French Alps, saw many French Resistance fighters join the movement in 1944. The fighters were set to disrupt German activities to support the Provence Landing. This class will look at what happened and why through the eyes of the instructor's father, a teen at the time, who was pulled into the Resistance movement at the eleventh hour. We will read excerpts of his book about his unbelievable experience during this battle that remained controversial for many years.

Start your Tuesday with music and songs. Join us in a fun, informal sing-along. Bring your voices and/or musical instruments. The operative word is "fun." If you like music, you will like this class. All levels welcome!

This class is an introduction to watercolor. We will focus on learning the basics of technique, color mixing, blending, and familiarizing ourselves with the medium of watercolor. Some classes will be dedicated to techniques; in other classes we will be creating finished works. The class will help you to feel more confident in your watercolor practice.

If you have painted with watercolor and would like to take it to the next stage, this class is for you. We will practice sketching and developing a deeper understanding of planning and painting while adding our own individual style. We will practice brushwork and take our time developing each piece.

Based primarily on Judith Viorst's book Making the Best of What's Left: When We're Too Old to Get the Chairs Reupholstered, this class will be a combination reading and discussion group about the situation we occupy in our last years. What kind of plans should we make? Would we prefer the single life, marriage, or some other arrangement? If we seek guidance, what kind is good, and where will we likely find it?

Does your daily walk feel safe? Do you have access to crosswalks, sidewalks, and adequate lighting? We will cover the key things needed to walk and feel safe, and how to get involved in making changes. The first class meeting will be a conversation and advocacy hour. In the second class meeting you will gain experience surveying and auditing a neighborhood in Chico. Don't miss out on the opportunity to improve your community.

This writer's workshop serves a community of writers interested in sharing their writing and responding to other writers' work. We will focus on fiction, memoir, creative nonfiction, poetry, travel writing, stories for children, and other types of writing. Following a workshop format, this class will be an opportunity for students to receive feedback for their written work and provide meaningful support to fellow writers.

Ever watch a movie and think, "I could write something better"? Now's your chance! This hands-on workshop for beginners delivers practical techniques from working screenwriters in a supportive environment. You'll learn structure that works, create compelling characters, and master visual storytelling. Whether you're adapting your novel or exploring that idea rattling around your brain, you'll gain the skills to write your screenplay and working knowledge of what it takes to get from page to screen. No experience necessary – just stories to tell.

This all-levels hatha yoga class welcomes all bodies and abilities. Jeanne teaches "to the room," adapting the practice to meet the needs of those present. Drawing on her background in dance, kinesiology, and massage, she offers a comprehensive, informative, and enjoyable experience. Classes include breathing (pranayama), chanting, yoga philosophy, and asana practice to enhance range of motion and circulation while we stretch, strengthen, and relax.